Thrive in ELT

Wish your work-life balance was a bit more… balanced?  Forgetting my sister's birthday was the wake-up call that started a gradual process of finding the work-life balance I needed to thrive as an ESL teacher. In the final episode of this season, I talk about the two key elements that moved me forward and can help make that wish a reality for you, too.   For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/74-finding-better-work-life-balance    Stay in touch! Sign up for my newsletter, Your Organized ELT Life. I'll share tips, resources, and insights to help you manage your workload so that you have more time for yourself. >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/a29bcd1017  Connect with me: Website LinkedIn Facebook  

Don't you love it when you find out that you're not the only one? That's the way I felt when I first had a chat with Ana Jereb a few months back. I felt it again when we recorded this latest episode. I typically go solo on the show, but sometimes I meet someone who impacts me and my ELT life so much that I want you to know this person too. In this episode, you'll learn about: how Ana experienced burnout as an English language teacher and then turned things around why she believes that saying students come first isn't possible the importance of teachers thinking of themselves as people first and foremost If I were a betting person, I'd bet that you'll see yourself somewhere in her story too. For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/73-teachers-are-people-first-finding-balance-in-language-education   Connect with Ana: Website LinkedIn Stay up to date with the podcast and more: Subscribe to my monthly newsletter for updates on the podcast and other good stuff like organizational tips that you can apply straightaway. >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/a29bcd1017  Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn Facebook  

Do you find it hard to actually apply English language teaching theory to your teaching? Often, research articles can feel distant, like the ideas are for a completely different world because you don't see how they apply to your teaching situation.  At the same time, you recognize that academic research in English language teaching is important to know about and understand – for yourself and your students. That's why I've reviewed the book, Teaching English to Second Language Learners in Academic Contexts: Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking, for you. It's definitely a gold mine if you teach academic English, but it's also worth a read even if you're not. The authors themselves mention that this book can benefit teachers who are:  ◼ looking to give new energy to their teaching,  ◼ just starting out, and  ◼ pre-service teachers.   For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/72-four-skills-one-book-bridging-theory-and-practice    Subscribe to my monthly newsletter: Get more helpful resources in addition to organizational tips and special offers that will help you live a calmer, more sustainable ELT life. >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/a29bcd1017  Resources Mentioned in the Episode: Newton, J. M., Ferris, D. R., Goh, C. C. M., Grabe, W., Stoller, F. L, & Vandergrift, L. (2018) Teaching English to second language learners in academic contexts: Reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Routledge.  Metacognitive Awareness of Reading Strategies Inventory (MARSI)  Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn Facebook  

Does this ever happen to you? You're listening to music or cooking dinner and all of a sudden you get an idea for one of your classes.  It's very common for us English language teachers to think about work outside of work. I would even bet that some of our most creative thoughts come from these times! But as exciting and helpful as it can be, sometimes the way work presents itself in our personal time can feel like a burden, maybe even an intrusion. Which is why switching off from work is so important. Tune in to learn five ways you can truly switch off from work.   For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/71-5-ways-to-truly-switch-off-from-work    Resources: Ready to stop putting off the professional development that you really want or need? Get rid of the frustration and guilt by creating a personal PD plan that will help you get the right things done at the right time. Grab your step-by-step PDF guide and five linked Google Docs, and lock in your two 1:1 sessions with me before March 27, 2025 >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/products/personal-pd-plan.    Sign up for my newsletter to get more organizational tips like in today's episode that will help you live a calmer, more sustainable ELT life >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/a29bcd1017    Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn Facebook  

What do you need to take (and stay in) charge of your to-do list? It's Day 5 — congratulations! You've accomplished a lot this week. To help you maintain the momentum, I've got two more factors for you to consider. How you answer today's questions will determine how well your to-do lists work for you and if they're stress relieving instead of stress inducing.   Resources: Get the free PDF companion that will guide you as you work through the challenge, giving you space to brainstorm ideas and make decisions. >> https://eltresourceroom.kit.com/3c5da19c88  Instead of missing out on growth opportunities or spending time on things you don't really need, create a personalized PD plan that's right for you at this moment in your ELT life. Get the guide and lock in your two 1:1 sessions with me. >> https://eltresourceroom.kit.com/products/personal-pd-plan  Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn Facebook  

If your to-do list could be any way you could make it, what would it look like? It's Day 4, and you get to decide. While there are probably options you'll want to choose from, your to-do list is yours. How do you want it to be so that it serves you and your English language teaching life in the best way possible?   Free Resource: Get the free PDF companion that will guide you as you work through the challenge, giving you space to brainstorm ideas and make decisions. >> https://eltresourceroom.kit.com/3c5da19c88  Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn Facebook  

How many to-do lists do you really need? It's Day 3, and that means it's decision making time! Answer these two important questions to help you work more productively.   Free Resource: Get the free PDF companion that will guide you as you work through the challenge, giving you space to brainstorm ideas and make decisions. >> https://eltresourceroom.kit.com/3c5da19c88  Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn Facebook  

Want to make your to-do list work for you instead of stressing you out all of the time? It's Day 2, and we're going a step further. Let's think about how your answers to Day 1's questions impact your English language teaching life — now and in the future.   Free Resource: Get the free PDF companion that will guide you as you work through the challenge, giving you space to brainstorm ideas and make decisions. >> https://eltresourceroom.kit.com/3c5da19c88  Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn Facebook  

It's Day 1 — let's get started! Listen in for three guiding questions that will help you run a diagnostic on your current to-do list practices.   Free Resource: Get the free PDF companion that will guide you as you work through the challenge, giving you space to brainstorm ideas and make decisions. >> https://eltresourceroom.kit.com/3c5da19c88  Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn Facebook  

Do you feel overwhelmed by all the stuff that needs to get done in your English language teaching life? Join me, right here on the podcast, March 3-7, 2025, for the Take Charge of Your To-Do List challenge. Get the details in this short invitation episode and get ready to make your to-do list work for you and not stress you out. (Sounds good, doesn't it?!)   Free Resource: Sign up to get the free PDF that goes along with each day of the challenge here: https://eltresourceroom.kit.com/3c5da19c88 

Have you ever thought to yourself that there has to be a better way? Whether it's every week or every day, it can feel like there's always something to be done.  What often follows? The feeling that there's always something that could be done better. The reality of your English language teaching life is likely this: There will always be a lesson to plan, a course to revise, or an assignment to review. But that reality doesn't have to mean long hours or striving toward perfection. What I finally decided to say years ago was this: Good enough is enough. This doesn't mean that you stop doing your best for you students. Instead, it means that you focus on the right things, the better things, at the right time. Join me in this episode to find out how you can make good enough enough in your ELT life.   For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/70-when-good-enough-is-enough-in-english-language-teaching    Stay up to date with the podcast and more: Sign up for my monthly newsletter to get tips like in today's episode that will help you live a calmer, more sustainable ELT life >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/a29bcd1017    Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn Facebook  

Do you want to thrive in your English language teaching life? Learn about the Thrive in ELT podcast and how the practical episodes can help you reduce stress and find more time to breathe by getting organized.   Connect with your host, Heather Johnston: Website LinkedIn Facebook  

Have you ever started a system and then gotten off track? (My hand is up!) We all need a restart every now and again, don't we? Some are easy, like the ones that tend to come naturally at the beginning of a new term. But others? They can feel like a disruption, a hassle, or even a disappointment. But here are three facts about organizational systems: It's OK if you put a system in place and it doesn't work out like you'd hoped. When you discover that a particular system or a part of a system doesn't work, that can be a really good thing. When you get off track, it doesn't mean that you're an unorganized person or that you can't handle follow-through. It means that your system needs attention. Not so sure about all of this? Then you'll want to check out this episode where I share four steps for getting your organizational systems back on track.    Show Notes: For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/69-four-steps-to-get-your-organizational-systems-back-on-track Stay up to date with the podcast and more: Sign up for my newsletter to get more organizational tips like in today's episode that will help you live a calmer, more sustainable ELT life >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/a29bcd1017   Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn Facebook  

Do you find it a struggle to help your students learn vocabulary?  It's been a challenge of mine for most of my English language teaching career.  But last semester I discovered a resource that's helping me change that – all thanks to James Thomas.  VersaText is a free online vocabulary tool that helps language teachers like you and me create text-specific materials and help our students discover new ways of thinking about words. Through the use of a fun yet intentional word cloud, concordance, and word profiler, I'm learning how to systematically help my students learn better. And I have to say, it feels really good. So if vocabulary is one of your topics of interest, or a need like me, listen in to hear James share his knowledge and wisdom about learning and teaching words.  My favorite quote from the episode? “I always think it's like looking at a text through a kaleidoscope.” I'd never thought about a word cloud in this way, but I can see it! Maybe you can too?   For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/68-teaching-vocabulary-and-more-through-text    Resources Mentioned in the Episode: VersaText - The free, online vocabulary tool that James has developed Teaching English through Text - VersaText course for English language teachers (25% discount for the first 50 signups using the coupon code versatext25) Versatile Publisher - James' website Connect with James on LinkedIn or Facebook   Stay up to date with the podcast and more: Sign up for my monthly newsletter for more helpful content, including recommended resources like in today's episode, to help you live a calmer, more sustainable ELT life >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/a29bcd1017    Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn Facebook

What words are in your job description? I'm guessing “teaching,” but what else?  It's not uncommon for English language teachers to take on multiple roles, voluntary or otherwise. Other words I've seen in ELT job descriptions are ones like: advising chairing coordinating grading leading We could probably get a list that includes every letter from A to Z!  While balancing multiple roles can be quite enjoyable, it can be a struggle to keep on top of everything. And that struggle can be overwhelming at times because of the responsibilities that come with them. Thankfully, there are things you do so you can spend more time enjoying and less time overwhelmed.   In this episode, get six tips to help you make the juggling act a little easier.    Show Notes: For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/67-how-to-juggle-multiple-elt-roles-with-ease   Resources: Sign up for the Personal PD Plan waitlist >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/f30fbb252b, and I'll email you when the guide is available again next semester. Join my monthly newsletter for updates on future programs such as the Personal PD Plan guide plus other good stuff like organizational tips that you can apply straightaway and recommended resources that I use myself >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/a29bcd1017    Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn Facebook

What is the ratio of work to rest in your English language teaching life right now? 50:50? 60:40? 90:10? It takes effort, persistence, and likely a bit of trial and error, to get it where you want it to be. It won't always stay consistent, but there are certainly things you can do to find a better balance that's right for you. I surprised myself early this year when the professional development plan I created wasn't very (what I would have called) “professional.” It had nothing to do with learning a new skill, helping my students, becoming a better teacher, or any other activity normally associated with PD. Or so I thought. In this episode of the podcast I share all about the surprising effect Alex Soojung-Kim Pang's book “Rest: Why You Get More Done When You Work Less” has had on my ELT life. By the end of the episode, my hope is that you're inspired and encouraged to: evaluate the role of rest in your ELT life and  not feel guilty for wanting, needing, and making space for rest in your life.   Show Notes: For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/66-rest-english-language-teachers-practical-application    Get your Personal PD Plan Guide: Developing a personal PD plan doesn't have to be complicated. It just needs to be right for you. With: 1 PDF guide, 5 Google Doc templates, and  2 one-on-one sessions (between October 9 and November 26, 2024), you can do just that. But you only have access to this special offer through October 17, 2024. So go to eltresourceroom.com/resources to get your guide and book your sessions before it's too late!   Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn Facebook

Do you ever find yourself saying this as an English language teacher?  “I'll (insert action) when things slow down.” Whether it's starting back to exercising, catching up with a friend, or taking time to read a few pages of a good book, it seems like things never actually slow down. The truth of the matter is that it rarely just happens. So you have to make it.  How?  By intentionally resting. Before reading Alex Soojung-Kim Pang's book “Rest: Why You Get More Done When You Work Less,” I had no idea what that even looked like beyond sleeping and taking a (long-overdue) vacation. (Those both count, but they aren't even the tip of the iceberg of what constitutes rest.) Maybe you'd like things to slow down more in your ELT life? A bit better work-life balance? The feeling of time to breathe throughout your work day? In this episode I share these highlights of Pang's book: what “rest” really means, how it looks, and why you should read his book too.   Show Notes: For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/65-rest-english-language-teachers-book-review Sign Up!  Stay up to date with this podcast, get organizational tips that you can apply straightaway, and check out recommended resources by signing up for my monthly newsletter >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/a29bcd1017 Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn Facebook  

What's new with you? A new semester often brings about a lot of “new,” like: new students a new schedule new procedures new opportunities It also means a new season of the Thrive in ELT podcast, where I'll be sharing more tips and strategies for staying on top of your teaching game. Whether you've taught a course one time or 12, this newest episode will have you thinking about how to stay focused, perform the occasional check-in, make adjustments when needed, and more.   For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/64-5-reasons-why-you-your-students-need-course-roadmap    Resources: Wouldn't it be nice to be prepared for life's what-if moments now so that you can skip the stress later? Well, you can be prepared, even for the unexpected. Get the resources you need to create a teaching contingency plan here >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/products/teaching-contingency-plan   Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn Facebook  

A new academic year is on its way, and so is a new season of the Thrive in ELT podcast. Listen to this short update episode to find out: what's coming next at the Thrive in ELT podcast and how you can set yourself up for a calmer, more sustainable semester. Resources: Book your Power Hour with Heather and prepare your Plan B for this academic year by going to: https://www.eltresourceroom.com/resources Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn Facebook

Do you ever tell yourself that you'll “get to that later” because “now isn't a good time”? Certainly there are times when it's not. But when it really may be, is your reason for waiting because… it's all just too overwhelming? you're avoiding doing the thing? it's more comfortable to think instead of do? you're worried that your effort will result in a failed attempt? The problem with waiting sometimes, though, is that you experience missed opportunities, prolonged stress, or even added frustration. When it comes to your ELT life, I'm guessing your list of wants and needs is easy to make but harder to address. Amidst your everyday life of planning, teaching, grading, and everything in between, it's easier to say, “I'll get to that later.” Yet, what if instead of putting off everything, you tackled just one thing? Select. Focus. Do. Repeat. What can help you follow this process? Developing organizational systems that are right for you.  If you're on the fence about whether or not today is your right time, listen in for some insight and inspiration.    Show Notes: For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/63-are-you-waiting-for-the-right-time-to-get-organized Resources: Get rid of the frustration and guilt. Create a personal PD plan that will help you work towards your professional goals, all at the right time for you. Get the step-by-step template here >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/products/personal-pd-plan Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” and choose from 10 practical tips to help you on your organizational journey >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn Facebook

Want to get organized but aren't sure where to start? Starting is almost always the hard part. You ask yourself questions like: What's it going to be like? Am I really capable of doing this? Is it even going to work? What if I fail? But you know what? Without trying, you're never going to move beyond the frustration. Trying. That's one of the five stages of developing an organizational system that is: purposeful, right for you, and a relief giver.   Learn about this and the four other stages in the latest Thrive in ELT podcast episode.   Show Notes: For full show notes of this episode, visit  https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/62-5-stages-of-developing-an-organizational-system  Resources: Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” and start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com Make your professional development personal. Get the template to help >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/products/personal-pd-plan Be prepared for when the unexpected happens in your ELT life. Get the teaching contingency plan guide >>  https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/products/teaching-contingency-plan  Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn Facebook

Do you approach your recurring tasks randomly or systematically? We all have them. Those things that have to get done – over and over again.  From the day-to-day to the occasional, from the simple to the complex. They're a part of what you do as an EAP/ESL teacher.  So… if you have to do them anyway, why not make things a little easier for yourself? One way to do this is by establishing routines.  If thinking less, reducing your stress, and staying on track in your ELT life sounds like a good plan, then this episode is for you. (Don't worry. It doesn't mean that your life will become boring.

Being prepared takes organization. And being organized takes… reflection?  Sometimes reflection can take a back seat to planning and teaching because it doesn't seem to have the same degree of urgency. But reflecting before, during, and after events in your ELT life provides you with an opportunity for gaining insight into what works and what doesn't for your teaching situation.  How you reflect and what your reflections tell you can help strengthen your organizational skills.  Similarly, your organizational systems can help you develop stronger reflection skills.  Listen in to find out how. Get the guide to help you make professional development personal – step by step >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/products/personal-pd-plan   Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” and start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com   For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/60-strengthen-your-organizational-skills-by-reflecting   Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn Facebook

Have you ever had moments where you're calm, ready for the day, and then all of a sudden…  you're not? A six-letter word is what often results: stress. The good kind of stress can be motivating and even help you better fulfill your role as a teacher. The not-so-good kind of stress, however, can be overwhelming and cause you to lose focus, making it more difficult instead of easier to accomplish what needs to get done. In this episode I share six steps you can take to keep your stress levels in check when your best-laid plans go awry.    Get the teaching contingency plan guide >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/products/teaching-contingency-plan    Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” and start seeing a change today. >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com   For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/59-6-steps-for-when-your-plans-go-awry  Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn Facebook

What's your next step when it comes to reducing stress in your ELT life? If you said organizational systems, you're an EAP/ESL teacher after my own heart! By now you know what organizational systems look like and how to choose ones that are right for you. The logical next step is for you to actually develop one. Wondering how?  In this episode, I share three ways you can do that.  No matter which route you choose, any one of the three will serve you well because each method has the same end goal – reducing stress and easing the overwhelm in your ELT life.   Ready to start your first organizational system? Get your personal PD plan template ("Fostering Professional Development... on Your Own Terms") and teaching contingency plan guide ("How to Prepare for When You Can't Teach") here >> www.eltresourceroom.com/resources    For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/58-how-to-get-started-on-your-first-organizational-system  Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn Facebook  

Are the choices you're making, and the way in which you're working in your ELT life, actually making things easier for yourself? Sometimes we don't realize that what's creating difficulty in our lives is not necessarily someone or something else but our own decision-making when it comes to what we focus on. When and how we decide to work can affect the level of difficulty or ease we experience. Identifying what's causing the stress and overwhelm is the first step. Making a plan to reduce it is next. Listen in for a useful identification exercise and four recommendations for making things easier for yourself.   For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/57-making-things-easier-for-yourself    Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” and start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn Facebook

How do you decide what to do to make your ELT life less stressful? Options abound...  Should you use an app for your to-do list or stick with paper? Would it be more efficient to organize your course files by skill or level? Is it more logical to create multiple calendars for different types of tasks or one calendar with visual cues to distinguish between them? Developing the right systems – for you and your ELT life – will help you manage your time and get things done. Yet trying to decide can be confusing and overwhelming, sometimes to the point of even avoiding making a decision.  In this episode, get a quick overview of the difference between tools and systems and then consider two factors for determining which right-for-you organizational systems you should develop.   For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/56-developing-organizational-systems-that-are-right-for-you    Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” and start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn Facebook

What makes a system “good”? This is a logical question, and I'm glad you asked! You obviously don't want to develop a system that isn't good, but what does that look like? Which leads to another question, what does “good” even mean? “Good” has multiple levels of meaning, and in the case of describing a system, I'm going to define it as this: It is appropriate and purposeful for you. Although the systems you develop may differ from mine or from a colleague's, the characteristics will be the same. Listen in to find out what those characteristics are and how they can make all the difference in developing organizational systems that are right for you in your ELT life.   For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/55-characteristics-of-a-good-organizational-system    Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” and start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com   Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn Facebook  

Have you ever wondered what an organizational system really is? Or said to yourself: “System” sounds complicated, and I'm not cut out for that. Instead of giving up before you even start, keep asking those questions... Who are organizational systems for? When and where would I even use them?  Why should I take the time and effort to create them? How would I go about using them after they're developed? Listen in to find out the answers.   Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” and start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com   For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/54-the-5ws-of-organizational-systems  Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn Facebook

How does organization fit into your ELT life? Does it have a leading role or a supporting one? And does it even matter? A multitude of factors can affect how you answer, including when in a semester you ask yourself these questions! While it might not be immediately obvious, and it may only play a small part, the amount of stress you experience is often tied to organization in some way.  It wasn't until I was pushed to my limit of frustration that I finally realized this.  In this episode, I talk about why your level of organization matters –  the people it affects and the purpose of setting up systems. If you've ever wondered if getting organized is really all it's hyped up to be, you'll want to have a listen.   Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” and start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com   For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/53-why-your-level-of-organization-matters    Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn Facebook

What do you have control of in your ELT life? Relationships? The environment? What and how you teach? Your professional development? In whole or in part, some of these aspects you probably can control while others you can't. But one thing you absolutely can control? Your organization. When I became more aware of what I was spending my time on, how often I was completing certain tasks, and what was frustrating me the most, I realized that I could choose to make my ELT life better – by organizing the different areas of my life. Find out about the impact organization can have on your ELT life by listening to this episode.   For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/52-how-organization-can-impact-your-elt-life    Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” and start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com     Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn Facebook  

When you look at your teaching schedule, do you see small bits of time scattered throughout? Maybe 15 minutes here and 45 there.  Your life in ELT makes for an interesting schedule, doesn't it? Your calendar is filled with classes, office hours, meetings, and plenty of other to-dos. It can be especially challenging when activities are broken up throughout the day that leave you with small bits of time in between to get things done. Is there any way to take advantage of the situation? Fortunately, there is. In this episode, discover where these small bits of time come from, why they can be problematic, and how you can practically take advantage of them. Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your 10 free tips and start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com   For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/51-how-to-take-advantage-small-bits-time-in-your-teaching-schedule  Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn Facebook

If you've ever gotten something organized in your ELT life, felt good about it, and then over the course of a semester slowly fell out of the habit, you're not alone. Being consistent in maintaining organizational systems can pose a challenge. It often takes several tries (aka practice) to make systems work, and that equals time and effort. But with the benefits of organization being so great, you'll find that it's worth it. In this episode I discuss those benefits as well as walk you through an example organizational issue and how consistency can be achieved in your life as an EAP/ESL teacher.   For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/50-achieving-organizational-consistency-eap-esl-teacher    Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” and start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com   Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn  

How much time do you spend looking for or creating meaningful activities for your students throughout the semester?  Maybe you've spent hours searching for that “just right" activity a time or two, which can be extremely frustrating and exhausting. Well, in today's episode, you're going to hear from Hall Houston, Lecturer at National Taipei University of Nursing and Health Sciences in Taipei, Taiwan. It was in the fall of 2022 when I discovered his book, 101 EFL Activities for Teaching University Students. I found myself going back to it time and again throughout the academic year for meaningful, appropriate, and engaging activities.  Hall's book is unlike any other I have on my shelf. It has saved me time (multiple times!) and has taken away the stress of finding those so-called perfect activities. It also has several distinct organizational features that I think you'll find especially helpful as you plan and teach at different points in your semester.   Get Hall's book here >> https://www.itdi.pro/community/publishing/101-efl-activities-for-teaching-university-students/ For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/49-implementing-meaningful-activities-every-stage-semester-hall-houston    Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” and start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn Facebook  

Have you ever gotten to the end of a term, breathed a sigh of relief, and then looked at your physical space, the relief quickly dissipating? You chose to prioritize – planning and meeting with students were more important than making sure extra handouts were put away.  This is certainly a logical choice, and one I've made myself multiple times over the years. But sometimes what you see after exams and grading are done can be visually and mentally overwhelming. Instead of ignoring the chaos or waiting until the next term starts (dreading it all the while), why not reorganize now?  In this episode, learn about the four steps you can take to do this at the end of your term.   Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” to start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com   For full show notes of this episode, visit  https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/48-reorganizing-your-physical-space-end-of-term   Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn

What are you juggling in your ELT life right now? It's advantageous to be organized at any point in time, of course, but when things in your ELT life get busy, it's even more so.  When you're overwhelmed with so many things that it feels like you don't know what to do or where to go next, it's definitely not what I'd call relaxing. In this episode, I discuss three ways you can manage your busy ELT life despite the uninvited challenges.   Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” to start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com   For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/47-3-ways-manage-busy-elt-life  

If you sat down right now and made a list of every tech tool you use, how many do you think you'd come up with?  10, 15, 25, more than that?  As an English language teacher, you've probably tried all kinds of tech tools that promise to improve your students' learning and make your life easier. There are certainly many tools that actually do deliver on their promises, but sometimes, all of the options can simply become overwhelming. Instead of stressing out over trying to use the latest thing – or everything – join me in figuring out how to avoid the tech overwhelm in your ELT life. Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” to start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com   For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/46-how-to-avoid-tech-tool-overwhelm    Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn  

How organized is your EAP/ESL teaching? Maybe your answer depends on the type of task or even the day of the week.  Getting organized certainly takes time, effort, and intention as well as an openness to learning new things. It also takes knowing about what can be organized and why.  Without a purpose, why organize? When it comes to teaching (and I include the preparation and follow-up here too), my purpose is to ensure that I have everything I need so that I'm ready to teach, my classes go as smoothly as possible, and I have a solid foundation to keep up the momentum.  There are four essential elements that have helped me maintain my purpose, and you can hear about they can help you too in this episode.   Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” and start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com   For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/45-4-essential-elements-organized-teaching  Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn

To-do lists really aren't all that effective. Have you heard that before? Most people, including me, use to-do lists, but there is some truth in that statement. The point of a to-do list is to help you get things done. Yet do you have a list (or have had one in the past) and it feels like you never really make any headway? Perhaps it gets lost in the shuffle over time or you simply ignore it. If a to-do list doesn't actually do what it's supposed to do, then should you even use one? Check out this episode to learn about the pros and cons of a to-do list and then decide what's best for you.   Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” to start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com   For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/44-pros-cons-to-do-list  Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn  

How much “stuff” do you have?  You know, things like file folders, binder clips, textbooks, and even course materials on your computer.  And how much do you have to do? Think of meetings, reviewing student work, lesson planning, and filling out forms required by your institution. It can be difficult to keep up with everything every day. If you're feeling overwhelmed with all of your “stuff”, you're not alone, and you don't need to feel ashamed or embarrassed for struggling to keep up. I know what it's like when you think you'll never be able to get everything done – I spent the biggest part of my teaching career feeling like I was on a hamster wheel. Stress in your ELT life will never completely go away (and a certain amount is actually good for you), but there are things you can do to reduce it.  Learn more in this episode about what to do when you're overwhelmed with all of your “stuff”.   Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” to start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com   For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/43-what-to-do-when-youre-overwhelmed-with-stuff  Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn  

Have you ever felt like you just couldn't give anymore of your time to your teaching job?  Maybe you were overwhelmed with the workload. Or stressed out because of unexpected changes. There will likely always be fluctuations in your working hours due to factors outside of your control like student enrollment, staff turnover, and contractual expectations. Even your own beliefs about how much time you ought to be putting into your work come into play. No matter the reason though, even including the reasons that are out of your control, there are ways you can cut down on your working hours. The organizational systems that you set up, carry out, and maintain? These are the key to helping you reduce stress and ease the overwhelm that come with working as an EAP/ESL teacher.   Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” to start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com   For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/42-4-tips-for-cutting-down-on-your-working-hours  Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn  

"What can I do about all of the digital files that keep piling up?" A participant asked this question at the end of a training session I provided for ELT freelancers a couple of months ago. It's a really good one, isn't it?  Over time it's only natural to accumulate quite a collection, which can become an overwhelming part of your ELT life. So what can you actually do about all of those digital files that keep piling up? Tune in to today's episode to discover the two aspects you'll want to focus on.   Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” to start seeing a change today. >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com   For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/41-how-to-clean-up-your-digital-files  Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn

Want to turn those ELT goals into reality?  Whether big or small, the aspirations you have for improving the lives of your students and yourself are worthy. But sometimes, it can be a challenge to actually see them through. You think: Do I really have time to do this? Let's do this thing! (2 months later…) Wait, what was it that I wanted to do? There's no way this would work. Instead of jumping right in or completely dismissing the ideas you have, listen to today's episode for the three steps you can take that will make it possible for you to achieve more of those goals.   Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” to start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/40-turning-your-elt-goals-into-reality  Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn

You want to make improvements to a course you're teaching.  You think, "Ugh, that lesson could have been better." Or perhaps it's more like, "I can't wait until I can start this course all over again."  Instead of feeling overwhelmed or guilty, allow yourself to celebrate the fact that you're noticing and reflecting, both of which are necessary parts to thriving in ELT.  When it comes to making changes to a course, it doesn't have to be a stressful and overwhelming experience. In fact, when you do it systematically, it can be quite invigorating. Listen to find out what that systematic process looks like and get started on improving that course that's on your mind.   Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” to get started today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/39-how-to-make-systematic-improvements-to-courses-you-teach  Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn

Have you ever noticed that the word no doesn't have a very good reputation in certain situations?  Saying yes, on the other hand, often gets accolades. There are some situations that are really easy to say no to. But when it comes to everyday ELT life, many things come up where you're probably more likely to say yes. Whichever you decide, either yes or no, you want your answer to work for you. This doesn't mean that you choose in a selfish way, but rather, that you choose in a reasonable way.  Your job as an EAP/ESL teacher is to serve your students in addition to your colleagues, institutional program, and, yes, even yourself. For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/38-saying-yes-or-no-when-is-one-better-than-other   Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn

Mundane tasks. Those ordinary, day-to-day things you have to do but don't consider all that exciting or motivating. (Maybe they even make you sigh, roll your eyes, or grit your teeth a little?) As an EAP/ESL teacher, some of your mundane tasks may include: reading, writing, or responding to certain emails; filling out your timesheet or leave report; reviewing student work; preparing for meetings; or completing administrative forms. The truth is though, all of these can be just as significant to complete as those tasks you might classify as urgent or important. Check out today's episode to find out why they matter and how to tackle them.   For full show notes of this episode, visit eltresourceroom.com/podcast/37-why-mundane-tasks-matter-what-to-do-about-them   Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn

What do you use Google Drive for as an EAP/ESL teacher? Creating course documents? Collaborating with an ELT colleague for an upcoming conference presentation? Sharing ideas and giving feedback? Google Drive has a ton of great features, but … it can be a bit overwhelming and frustrating at times.  In today's episode, I share 5 tips on what you want to do and don't want to do when using Google Drive.   For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/36-the-dos-and-donts-of-google-drive  Book a free 15-minute call to see if working with me one-on-one on your Google Drive is the right next step for you >> https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/6307deacfa690742379f6e31 Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn

One definition of organization is that it's “the quality of being arranged in a way that is sensible and useful.” Did you notice that it doesn't say anything about being perfect … or fixed? Sometimes we EAP/ESL teachers can be really strict with ourselves thinking that we have to stick with a specific formula for any number of reasons. But in today's episode, I share why your organizational systems should allow you to be flexible and not make you feel forced to be rigid with yourself or a situation, especially when pivoting or adapting makes good sense.  Whether it's for your instruction, your workspace, or even your email, the systems you have in place are meant to support you and not box you in.   For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/35-why-organization-is-about-being-flexible-and-not-fixed  Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn

Remember how you started off the new semester feeling refreshed and ready to go? Your desk was one area you got prepared. You were happy with the newly tidied and organized space, and you were determined to keep it that way. Now you're full on in the semester though, and maintaining an organized desk area is not always at the top of your priority list. Yet if the items on your desk aren't helping you stay focused and productive, then it may be time to look at what you've got and decide if it all really needs to be there. In today's episode, I give you a scenario and several questions to consider to help you figure out just what items you need for a desk area that's comfortable and conducive for working on all of your EAP/IEP tasks. For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/34-what-really-needs-to-be-on-your-desk   Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn

“How am I going to get all of this done?” Once you settle into a new term, you figure out what to expect from week to week.  But occassionally there's a week that sneaks in that isn't quite so normal, and the stress level starts to rise. You've ...  agreed to substitute for two of your colleagues. got a conference presentation on Thursday, which happens to be your busiest teaching day. just noticed after going through your emails that you forgot to put a committee project deadline on your calendar … and it's in three days. On top of these additional responsibilities, your brain also reminds you that you have your own lessons to prepare for and classes to teach next week. One thought leads to another, and you start to feel overwhelmed. So, how are you going to get it all done? In today's episode, I share five steps to help you figure out an answer to this question. Each one is practical addressing both logistics and personal wellbeing, and they don't require a lot of time to implement. For full show notes of this episode, visit eltresourceroom.com/podcast/33-5-steps-for-managing-an-overwhelming-week    Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn

In your experience teaching academic English, have you ever … stayed late at the office? worked on a weekend a time or two (or more than you can count)?  Maybe you've done so because it was the only way to get everything done. Maybe it's because you consider yourself a dedicated ELT professional. Or perhaps it's because working long and hard is just part of the job. On their own, there's nothing wrong with being dedicated to your profession and working late. But when the choices you make in your ELT life cause you to feel overwhelmed or stressed – or even guilty, then it could be because either you haven't established any boundaries yet or the ones you do have are being crossed. In today's Thrive in ELT episode, I focus on three major aspects to help you evaluate if taking a next step toward creating boundaries is right for you. Setting boundaries doesn't mean that you won't ever stay late again or take work home with you. But it does mean that you are aware of what you need to achieve and sustain the ELT life you'd really like to lead.  And guess what? It all starts with just one small step.   Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn